"Which pretty much means that we have cases present in all the regions of the state of Kentucky," said Dr. LaQuandra Nesbitt with the Louisville Metro Health Department.

Widespread is the highest level of flu activity, indicating outbreaks across the state.

In Kentucky, flu cases peak between January and March. With it already being widespread, doctors fear the worst is yet to come.

"This year we saw our first case as soon as the first full week in November. In previous years, it usually didn't begin until mid December. So the disease tends to be tracking ahead of schedule or the typical schedule that we see for influenza," said Nesbitt.

"High fever, headaches, no appetite, runny nose, cough," said Amin.

Doctors say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

"Everyone six months and older, that's our target audience. We believe everyone six months and older should be vaccinated," said Nesbitt.

"We are very particular about vaccinating not only the children, but the adult population and older folks too," said Amin.

Doctors say it's up to everyone to get protected. Anyone needing a flu shot can go to their general practitioner's office or to the Metro Health Department. Cost is not an issue at the health department, no one will be turned away.

Doctors said those at high-risk for the flu should be particularly vigilant and get vaccinated.

That includes those who work in the medical field, with children or the elderly.

Also, pregnant women, adults over 65 and people with pre-existing, chronic medical conditions.

8 most common flu myths

8 most common flu myths

8 most common flu myths

Think you know everything you need to know about the flu? See if you’ve been fooled by these eight common myths about the flu, according to U.S. News and World Reports.

Myth: The flu is just a bad cold.

Reality: The flu is much more dangerous than the common cold, carrying the danger of secondary bacterial infections like pneumonia.

Myth: A flu shot is your only defense against getting the flu.

Reality: Washing your hands, keeping your distance from someone else who is sick, getting enough sleep and taking care of yourself will help keep you well.

Myth: You only need a flu shot if you’re in a high-risk category.

Reality: The federal government recommends everyone older than 6 months get a flu shot, but it’s especially important for young kids, the elderly and anyone with a weak immune system.

Myth: The flu shot can give you the flu.

Reality: You may get a headache or low fever after a flu shot, but it’s not going to make you sick. If you do get a full-blown illness after getting a vaccine, it’s probably because viruses are already going around and you won’t be fully immune until you’ve had the shot for two weeks.

Myth: Flu shots hurt.

Reality: Try a nasal spray or intradermal vaccine if you don’t like longer needles.

Myth: Expect to vomit with the flu.

Reality: Influenza doesn’t induce stomach pain or vomiting. What’s usually referred to as the stomach flu is actually a different virus.

Myth: Antibiotics will help you recover from the flu.

Reality: The flu is a virus; antibiotics only help with bacterial infections. Try an antiviral like Tamiflu within the first two days of catching the virus instead.

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